Which evidence is typically used to assess external consistency?

Supporting documents from third parties are essential for assessing external consistency because they provide corroborative evidence that can validate or challenge an applicant's claims. When evaluating an asylum claim, external consistency pertains to how well the applicant's statements align with other credible sources of information that are not produced by the applicant. This includes reports, testimonies, or statements from third parties who may have relevant knowledge or expertise regarding the applicant's situation or the conditions in their country of origin.

These documents help to establish a broader context for the claims being made, providing an objective basis against which the applicant's narrative can be measured. By looking at supporting documents from outside the applicant's perspective, the adjudicator can determine the reliability of the applicant's account in relation to established facts or acknowledged situations within similar circumstances. This external validation is crucial in the asylum process, as it helps to ensure that decisions are grounded in a comprehensive evaluation of all available evidence.